On this page you will find safety tips to follow if you ever decide to give urban exploration a try yourself. There are various hazards that must be navigated when exploring an abandoned locations. Some dangers are easily seen, like a large hole in the floor, and others are completely invisible to the naked human eye, such as asbestos. If you have any questions about urban exploration safety, feel free to email .

 ASBESTOS
Asbestos is the single most danger to any urban explorer as it can be found in many abandoned buildings, drains and tunnels. When disturbed, asbestos fibers can float in the air and be breathed in. Asbestos can cause numerous problems over time, including an untreatable form of agonizing lung cancer. The risk of health issues due to asbestos exposure are significantly greater if the person is a smoker. Since asbestos cannot be seen with the naked eye, always assume it is present inside the structure being explored. Remember that dust masks are useless for keeping asbestos from entering the lungs. Only a respirator that is rated for asbestos filtration will protect your lungs. Check the Exploration Gear section of our Gear Shop for a respirator rated for asbestos.
 
 OTHER CONTAMINANTS
Many other contaminants can be found inside abandoned structures. They can range from industrial waste to bio-hazardous materials to various solvents to used grease to the forbidding black mold. This is just a sampling of what can be found. Again always consider wearing a respirator, gloves, thick soled shoes and overalls or other clothing that can easily be removed after the exploration.
 
 MACHINERY
Even though a location may look abandoned, it could still have running electricity. Do not do anything you would not do if you knew there was electric going to the equipment. Don't turn valves or flip switches since it is not known what will happen. This can be very dangerous to both you, those around you, and the structure itself. Make sure to wear gloves and be extremely careful if you decide to check out old rusty machines.
 
 STRUCTURE STABILITY
If a location has been abandoned for a long time, there is always a chance of things falling down or falling through. In some places just leaning against a wall could cause it to move or even collapse. Watch for floors and ceilings that look unsound and avoid walking there. Always use extreme caution when using staircases as the stair may fall through. In 2001, two OES members almost fell through a second story floor while exploring an abandoned house because they were not paying attention to the floor. As an example, watch the video to the right of an OES member falling in a hole inside an abandoned schoolhouse. Make sure to pay attention to where you are going, use caution, and use common sense to safely navigate while exploring an abandoned structure.

 
 GENERAL SAFETY
A minimal of three people should be present when exploring an abandoned structure. If someone is injured, one person may stay behind with the injured party while the other goes for help. Whenever possible, someone in the group should carry a cell phone and first-aid kit in case of such an event. Always carry proper identification and offer to show it if encountered by law enforcement.